Figures released today show Air New Zealand passenger numbers up 2% for May 2012. International passenger numbers rose from 98,000 to 103,000 with Domestic passenger numbers up 1.7% to 807,000. Traffic to the USA was particularly strong although this can partly be attributed to QANTAS withdrawing from the Auckland – Los Angeles route.

Airbus A320 ZK-OJQ operating NZ428 Wellington – Auckland suffered a bird strike to the right hand engine on final approach to Auckland this afternoon. The aircraft was able to land safely but will be out of service for 24 hours whilst repairs are made.

Boeing 777-319ER ZK-OKM operating the Los Angeles – Auckland sector of NZ1 London Heathrow – Los Angeles – Auckland returned to Los Angeles around two and a half hours after take off due to pilot illness. Passengers have been accommodated overnight.